Honey Brown Sugar Glazed Ham: A Delicious Recipe for Your Next Celebration

Honey Brown Sugar Glazed Ham: A Sweet Tradition

Honey Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is more than just a dish; it’s a centerpiece that brings families together during festive occasions. The moment you take that first bite, the sweet and savory flavors dance on your palate, creating a delightful experience that is hard to forget. This recipe has its roots in traditional holiday feasts, where the combination of honey and brown sugar not only enhances the ham’s natural flavors but also creates a beautiful caramelized crust that is simply irresistible.

People love this dish for its perfect balance of taste and texture. The juicy, tender ham pairs beautifully with the rich sweetness of the glaze, making it a favorite for gatherings and celebrations. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones rather than in the kitchen. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a Sunday family meal, Honey Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Whole cloves (optional, for studding the ham)

Preparing the Ham

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is perfect for heating the ham through without drying it out.
2. Remove the ham from its packaging and place it on a large cutting board. If the ham has a thick layer of skin, use a sharp knife to carefully score the surface in a diamond pattern. This not only looks beautiful but also allows the glaze to penetrate the meat.
3. If you like, you can stud the ham with whole cloves. Simply insert a clove into the center of each diamond you’ve scored. This adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the ham.
4. Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down. This helps keep the meat moist as it cooks.

Making the Glaze

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground ginger, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved and the glaze is smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Once the glaze is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside. You’ll use this glaze to baste the ham during the cooking process.

Cooking the Ham

1. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil. This will help keep the moisture in while it cooks. Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven.
2. Cook the ham for about 15-18 minutes per pound. For an 8-10 pound ham, this will take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 140°F (60°C).
3. About 30 minutes before the ham is done, remove the foil and brush a generous amount of the glaze over the surface of the ham. This will create a beautiful caramelized crust.
4. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and continue to bake. Baste the ham with the glaze every 10-15 minutes to build up layers of flavor and color.

Finishing Touches

1. Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful.
2. While the ham is resting, you can prepare any side dishes you’d like to serve with it. Classic options include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
3. After resting, transfer the ham to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice the ham against the grain into thick or thin slices, depending on your preference.
4. Serve the sliced ham on a platter, drizzling any remaining glaze over the top for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious Honey Brown Sugar Glazed Ham!

Storage and Reheating

1. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the ham for longer storage, up to 2 months.
2. To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also add a splash of water or broth to keep the ham moist while reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• This ham pairs wonderfully

  

  Conclusion:

  If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, the Honey Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is an absolute must-try. This recipe combines the rich, savory flavor of ham with a sweet and sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. The balance of honey and brown sugar gives the ham a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements its savory notes, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday feast, a family dinner, or a special celebration, this ham will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

  For serving suggestions, consider pairing your glazed ham with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. The sweetness of the glaze also pairs wonderfully with tangy sides like coleslaw or pickled vegetables, which can help balance the flavors on your plate. If you want to elevate your meal even further, serve the ham with a side of homemade biscuits or cornbread to soak up that delicious glaze.

  As for variations, feel free to get creative! You can add a splash of orange juice or a sprinkle of mustard to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re a fan of spices, consider incorporating cinnamon or cloves into the mix for a warm, aromatic touch. For a more tropical twist, try adding pineapple juice or chunks to the glaze, which will give your ham a delightful fruity flavor. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can bring a unique flair to your dish.

  I encourage you to try this Honey Brown Sugar Glazed Ham recipe for your next gathering. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the experience of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? How did your guests react? Sharing your culinary adventures not only inspires others but also creates a sense of community around the joy of cooking. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some unforgettable memories around the dinner table with this incredible ham recipe!

  ---

  Honey Brown Sugar Glazed Ham: A Delicious Recipe for Your Next Celebration

  This Honey Brown Sugar Glazed Ham features a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze that elevates any gathering. Perfectly cooked and beautifully caramelized, it's a show-stopping centerpiece that will have your guests coming back for more.

  Prep Time30 minutes

  Cook Time150 minutes

  Total Time150 minutes

  Category: Family Dinners

  Yield: 10-12 servings

  Save This Recipe

  Ingredients

  • 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
  • 1 cup honey
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Whole cloves (optional, for studding the ham)

  Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Remove the ham from its packaging and place it on a large cutting board. Score the surface in a diamond pattern if it has a thick layer of skin.
  3. Optionally, stud the ham with whole cloves by inserting them into the center of each diamond.
  4. Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down.
  5. In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground ginger, and black pepper. Stir well.
  6. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it simmers, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves (about 5-7 minutes).
  7. Remove from heat and set aside.
  8. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
  9. Cook for about 15-18 minutes per pound (approximately 2 to 2.5 hours for an 8-10 pound ham) until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
  10. About 30 minutes before it’s done, remove the foil and brush the ham with the glaze. Return to the oven uncovered, basting every 10-15 minutes.
  11. Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
  12. Prepare any side dishes while the ham rests.
  13. Slice the ham against the grain and serve on a platter, drizzling any remaining glaze over the top.

  Notes

  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • To reheat, preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C), cover the ham slices with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes.